Definition

Periodontal disease refers to bacterial plaque and infections around the gum and tooth root. It can happen around one or several teeth. In its more advanced stages, surgery may be needed to fix damaged gums.

What to Expect

Prior to Procedure

Talk to your dentist or pharmacist if you are taking more than one drug. Some drugs can be dangerous when mixed. This includes over-the-counter medications and herb or dietary supplements.

You may be asked to take an antibiotic before surgery.

Arrange for a ride if you are having sedation.

Sometimes, sedative medications are used to make you more relaxed during surgery. If you are undergoing conscious sedation, you will be asked to not eat for at least 6 hours before surgery. Otherwise, you can follow a normal diet.

Anesthesia

A local anesthetic will be used near the gum disease.

Your dentist may recommend conscious sedation. You will be awake, but will have no anxiety during the surgery.

Description of Procedure

This surgery is usually done in an outpatient setting. You do not need to stay overnight. If you are undergoing sedation, you will have it through an IV. Your heart rate, blood pressure, and breathing will be monitored during and after the surgery.

The periodontist or dentist will numb the affected area using a local anesthetic delivered through a needle. They will make a small cut in the gum line near the tooth root. The gum flap will be pulled back, and he will clean out and scrape the infected area. The gum flap will be repositioned to minimize the deep pocket size that formed. The gum will be stitched back into place. A dressing will be applied.

How Long Will It Take?

The time it takes to complete the procedure depends on how bad the damage is and how many gum areas are affected.

How Much Will It Hurt?

Anesthesia will prevent pain during surgery. Pain and discomfort after the procedure can be managed with medications.

Post-procedure Care

At the Dentist Office

During your stay, the dental staff will take steps to reduce your chance of infection, such as:

Washing their hands

Wearing gloves or masks

Keeping your incisions covered

There are also steps you can take to reduce your chance of infection, such as:

Washing your hands often and reminding your healthcare providers to do the same

Reminding your healthcare providers to wear gloves or masks

Not allowing others to touch your incision

At Home

When you return home:

Rest as needed.

Take over-the-counter medications as advised for swelling and pain.

Apply an ice pack to the side of your cheek for 15-20 minutes at a time. Place a towel between the ice pack and your skin.

Eat small amounts of soft or pureed foods.

Do not smoke, rinse your mouth, or use a straw.

Apply dressings or gauze to the area as directed to absorb blood and saliva.

Do not exercise for a few days as directed.

Do not drive until your dentist says it is okay to do so.

Call Your Dentist

It is important for you to monitor your recovery. Alert your dentist to any problems right away. If any of the following occur, call your dentist:

Signs of infection, including fever and chills

Redness, swelling, increasing pain, a lot of bleeding, or any unusual discharge

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